New website offers asthma info, help

NORTH FULTON, Ga. – With the flu and cold-like symptoms popping up recently, those suffering with asthma may be at risk for problems, doctors warn.

A new website plans to help and inform about asthma.

Dr. LeRoy Graham, of Georgia Pediatric Pulmonology Associates, which has offices in Dunwoody and Alpharetta, said respiratory infections, such as colds and the flu, are some of the most common causes of asthma flare-ups.

“Flu is such a big problem because influenza attacks the lining of the air passages, the same place as asthma,” Graham said. “In pediatrics, the majority of deaths were normal children who had asthma. It shows how serious it can be with someone with asthma.”

Graham urged those suffering from chronic asthma to get the flu vaccine every year.

Graham said one of the biggest myths about asthma is that it primarily affects youths.

“That’s absolutely false,” Graham said. “Asthma can occur in anyone at any time at any age.”

Asthma occurs when irritants get into the airways and the lungs.

The online source with tips on how to avoid irritants and how to deal with asthma can be found www.GetSmartAboutAsthma.com.

“[The website] has a wealth of information about asthma,” Graham said. “Asthma is a chronic disease. When you manage a chronic disease, you need to educate yourself. Patients need to get smart and be informed.”